tire

Abstract

To provide a tire which can maintain characteristics of an RFID tag as an electronic component unit embedded in the tire while securing rigidity of the tire.SOLUTION: A tire 1 includes: a pair of beads 11 having a bead core 21 and a bead filler 22 extending to the outside in a tire radial direction of the bead core 21; a reinforcement resin layer 50 provided along the bead filler 22; and an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit arranged so as to contact the reinforcement resin layer 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tire in which an electronic component unit is disposed. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, tires with embedded electronic components such as RFID tags are known. Such tires can perform manufacturing management, usage history management, and the like of the tires by communicating between the RFID tag embedded in the tire and a reader as an external device. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a tire in which a communication circuit unit formed of an RFID or the like that stores identification information, history information, and the like is connected to a conductive belt or carcass cord by bypass wiring, and a part of the conductive belt or carcass cord functions as a loop antenna. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2004-13399 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, a part of a belt or carcass cord for ensuring the rigidity of a tire is made to function as a loop antenna to perform communication, thereby enabling management of tire history information, etc. In the design of an antenna, it is necessary to optimize the length of the antenna according to the frequency band to be used. Specifically, in consideration of the resonance conditions between the antenna and radio waves, it is preferable that the length of the antenna is half or 1 / 4 of the wavelength of the frequency to be used. However, the dimensions of the belt or carcass cord shown in Patent Document 1 as a member constituting the antenna are susceptible to manufacturing errors. Therefore, it is difficult to accurately set the length of the antenna using these. In other words, in consideration of manufacturing errors, etc., it is difficult to say that making a part of a conductive belt or carcass cord function as a loop antenna is a preferable aspect in terms of communication quality. In addition, in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, an electronic component and a belt or carcass cord as a conductive member are intentionally brought into electrical contact, but when there is no such intention, if an electronic component and a conductive member come into electrical contact, the performance of the electronic component may change, making it difficult to maintain the characteristics of the electronic component.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a tire that can increase the rigidity of the tire while suppressing deterioration in the characteristics of an electronic component unit arranged in the tire. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The tire of the present invention includes a pair of beads each having a bead core and a bead filler extending radially outward from the bead core in the tire radial direction, a reinforcing resin layer provided along the bead filler, and an electronic component unit arranged in contact with the reinforcing resin layer. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress deterioration in the characteristics of an electronic component unit disposed in a tire while increasing the rigidity of the tire. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a half cross section in the tire width direction of a tire according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the tire of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the distance between a bead core and an RFID tag and the communication distance. FIG. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a first modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 5A] FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a third modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a fourth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 5C] FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a fifth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 6A] FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a sixth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a seventh modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 6C] FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to an eighth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a ninth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an RFID tag protected by a protective member in a tire according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a cross section bb of FIG. 8A. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a cross section cc of FIG. 8A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a half cross section in the tire width direction of a tire 1 according to this embodiment. The basic structure of the tire 1 is symmetrical in a cross section in the tire width direction, so a cross section of the right half is shown here. In the figure, the symbol S1 indicates the tire equatorial plane. The tire equatorial plane S1 is a plane that is perpendicular to the tire rotation axis (tire meridian) and is located at the center in the tire width direction.

[0010] Here, the tire width direction is a direction parallel to the tire rotation axis, and is the left-right direction on the paper in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1. In FIG. 1, this is illustrated as tire width direction X. The inner side in the tire width direction is a direction approaching the tire equatorial plane S1, and is the left side on the paper in FIG. 1. The outer side in the tire width direction is a direction away from the tire equatorial plane S1, and is the right side on the paper in FIG. 1. The tire radial direction is a direction perpendicular to the tire rotation axis, and is the up-down direction on the paper in FIG. 1. In FIG. 1, this is illustrated as tire radial direction Y. The outer side in the tire radial direction is a direction away from the tire rotation axis, and is the upper side on the paper in FIG. 1. The inner side in the tire radial direction is a direction approaching the tire rotation axis, and is the lower side on the paper in FIG. 1.

[0011] The cross-sectional view in Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view in the tire width direction (cross-sectional view at the tire meridian) in an unloaded state in which the tire is mounted on a specified rim and inflated to a specified internal pressure. The specified rim refers to a standard rim determined by JATMA for the tire size. The specified internal pressure is, for example, 180 kPa when the tire is for a passenger car.

[0012] The above also applies to FIGS. 2 and 4A to 6C.

[0013] The tire 1 is, for example, a tire for passenger cars, and includes a pair of beads 11 provided on both sides in the tire width direction, sidewalls 12 extending radially outward from each of the beads 11, and an annular tread 13 extending circumferentially of the tire and continuing to the radially outward of each of the sidewalls 12 to form a tread surface (contact surface with the road surface) 13C.

[0014] FIG. 2 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of the inner region in the tire radial direction of the bead 11 and the sidewall 12 in the tire 1 of the present embodiment shown in FIG.

[0015] The bead 11 includes a bead core 21 and a bead filler 22 extending outward from the bead core 21 in the tire radial direction.

[0016] The bead core 21 is an annular component formed by winding a rubber-coated metal bead wire multiple times, and serves to secure the tire 1 filled with air to the rim (not shown) of a wheel.

[0017] The bead filler 22 is a rubber member having a tapered tip that extends outward in the tire radial direction from the bead core 21. The bead filler 22 has an outer end 22A in the tire radial direction and an inner end 22B in the tire radial direction. The inner end 22B in the tire radial direction of the bead filler 22 is in contact with the outer end 21A in the tire radial direction of the bead core 21. The bead filler 22 is a member provided to increase the rigidity of the bead periphery and ensure high maneuverability and stability. The bead filler 22 is made of rubber having a higher hardness than the surrounding rubber members, for example. The modulus of the rubber constituting the bead filler is at least higher than the modulus of the rubber constituting the inner liner 29 and the rubber constituting the sidewall rubber 30 described below.

[0018] A carcass ply 23 is embedded in the tire 1, spanning between a pair of beads 11. The carcass ply 23 constitutes a ply that forms the framework of the tire 1, and is embedded in the tire 1 between the pair of beads 11, passing through a pair of sidewalls 12 and the tread 13.

[0019] The carcass ply 23 extends from one bead core 21 to the other bead core 21 and includes a ply body 24 extending between the tread 13 and the bead 11, and a ply turn-up portion 25 turned up around the bead core 21. In this embodiment, the ply turn-up portion 25 is overlapped with the ply body 24 in the region of the sidewall 12. The ply turn-up portion 25 has an end portion 25A. In this embodiment, the end portion 25A of the ply turn-up portion 25 is located in the region of the sidewall 12.

[0020] The carcass ply 23 is made of a plurality of ply cords extending in the tire width direction. The plurality of ply cords are arranged in the tire circumferential direction. The ply cords are made of insulating organic fiber cords such as polyester or polyamide, and are covered with a topping rubber.

[0021] The carcass ply 23 in this embodiment is a carcass ply 23 having a single layer structure including a single ply body 24. However, the carcass ply 23 may be a carcass ply 23 having a multiple layer structure including a multiple ply body 24.

[0022] The bead 11 further includes a chafer 31, a rim strip rubber 32 arranged on the outer side of the chafer 31 in the tire width direction, and a reinforcing resin layer 50.

[0023] The chafer 31 is provided so as to cover the carcass ply 23 provided around the bead core 21. More specifically, the chafer 31 is provided so as to cover the inner side in the tire width direction, the inner side in the tire radial direction, and the outer side in the tire width direction of the carcass ply 23 around the bead core 21. The chafer 31 has a first end 31A arranged on the inner side in the tire width direction of the ply body 24, and a second end 31B arranged on the outer side in the tire width direction of the ply turn-up portion 25 of the carcass ply 23. The chafer 31 is made of, for example, rubber kneaded with fibers or rubber with a high modulus, and has a relatively high strength among the components that make up the tire 1. For example, it has a higher strength than the inner liner 29 and sidewall rubber 30 described below.

[0024] The rim strip rubber 32 is disposed on the outer side in the tire width direction of the chafer 31 and the ply turn-up portion 25 of the carcass ply 23, and is a rubber member whose outer side in the tire width direction comes into contact with the rim of the wheel (not shown) when the tire 1 is mounted on a wheel. The rim strip rubber 32 has an outer end 32A in the tire radial direction and an inner end 32B in the tire radial direction. The outer side of the rim strip rubber 32 in the tire radial direction is connected to the sidewall rubber 30.

[0025] The reinforcing resin layer 50 is provided along the bead filler 22. More specifically, the reinforcing resin layer 50 is disposed between the bead filler 22 and the carcass ply 23. In the present embodiment, the reinforcing resin layer 50 is disposed between the ply turn-up portion 25 of the carcass ply 23 and the outer side of the bead filler 22 in the tire width direction. The reinforcing resin layer 50 has a function of reinforcing the vicinity of the bead 11 and increasing the rigidity of the tire.

[0026] The reinforcing resin layer 50 has a tire radial direction outer end 50A and a tire radial direction inner end 50B. In this embodiment, the tire radial direction outer end 50A of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is located outside the tire radial direction outer end 22A of the bead filler 22 and inside the tire radial direction of the end 25A of the ply turn-up portion 25. The reinforcing resin layer 50 has a portion sandwiched between the tire width direction outer side of the bead core 21 and the ply turn-up portion 25, and a portion sandwiched between the tire width direction outer side of the bead filler 22 and the ply turn-up portion 25. In this embodiment, the reinforcing resin layer 50 further has a portion sandwiched between the ply main body 24 and the ply turn-up portion 25. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the bead core 21. At least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the bead filler 22. At least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the carcass ply 23. More specifically, at least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the ply turn-up portion 25. Also, at least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the ply body 24.

[0027] The tire radial outer end 50A of the reinforcing resin layer 50 may be located radially inward of the tire radial outer end 22A of the bead filler 22. The tire radial outer end 50A of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is preferably located within a range of ±20 mm in the tire radial direction based on the tire radial outer end 22A of the bead filler 22. This allows the vicinity of the bead 11 to be appropriately reinforced.

[0028] The reinforcing resin layer 50 is made of a resin material. Examples of resin components contained in the resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 include thermoplastic resins, thermoplastic elastomers, and thermosetting resins. Examples of thermoplastic resins that can be used include polyurethane resins, polyester resins, polyolefin resins, polyvinyl chloride resins, polyamide resins, and polystyrene resins. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers that can be used include polyurethane-based thermoplastic elastomers, polyester-based thermoplastic elastomers, polyolefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, polyvinyl chloride-based thermoplastic elastomers, polyamide-based thermoplastic elastomers, and polystyrene-based thermoplastic elastomers. Examples of thermosetting resins that can be used include epoxy resins, phenolic resins, melamine resins, and urea resins. These resin components may be used alone, or multiple types of resin components may be used in combination.

[0029] The resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 may contain additives such as a filler and a plasticizer within a range that does not impair the effects of the present embodiment. The additive is preferably an additive that does not contain a conductive component.

[0030] The reinforcing resin layer 50 is preferably made of a sheet-like member having a uniform internal structure made of a resin material. The reinforcing resin layer 50 may have a single-layer structure made of one of the above-mentioned sheet-like members, or a multi-layer structure made by stacking a plurality of the above-mentioned sheet-like members. In the case of a multi-layer structure, the resin materials constituting the sheet-like members of each layer may be different resin materials.

[0031] The resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 is a heat-resistant resin material that can withstand the vulcanization temperature during vulcanization in the tire manufacturing process.

[0032] By providing such a reinforcing resin layer 50, it is possible to reinforce the vicinity of the bead 11 without providing, for example, a metal member having a metal cord in this portion. Therefore, it is possible to increase the rigidity of the tire and improve the handling stability while suppressing the decrease in rolling resistance due to an increase in the weight of the tire.

[0033] The sidewall 12 includes a sidewall rubber 30 disposed on the outer side of the carcass ply 23 in the width direction.

[0034] The sidewall rubber 30 is a rubber member that constitutes the outer wall surface of the tire 1. The sidewall rubber 30 has an outer end 30A in the tire radial direction and an inner end 30B in the tire radial direction. This sidewall rubber 30 is the part that bends the most when the tire 1 performs a cushioning function, and flexible rubber having fatigue resistance is usually used for this sidewall rubber.

[0035] The tread 13 includes a steel belt 26 arranged radially outward of the carcass ply 23, a cap ply 27 arranged radially outward of the steel belt 26, and a tread rubber 28 arranged radially outward of the cap ply 27.

[0036] The steel belt 26 is composed of a plurality of steel cords covered with rubber. Providing the steel belt 26 ensures the rigidity of the tire 1 and improves the contact state between the tread 13 and the road surface. In this embodiment, a two-layer steel belt (an inner steel belt 261 and an outer steel belt 262) is provided, but the number of laminated steel belts 26 is not limited to this. Note that instead of the steel belt 26 using steel cords, a belt using tire cords using aramid fibers may be used. Note that in the two-layer steel belt 26 of this embodiment, the inner steel belt 261 is wider than the outer steel belt 262. Therefore, the outer end of the inner steel belt 261 in the tire width direction constitutes the outer end 26A of the steel belt 26 in the tire width direction.

[0037] The cap ply 27 is a member disposed on the tire radial outer side of the steel belt 26, and functions as a belt reinforcing layer. The cap ply 27 is composed of an insulating organic fiber layer such as polyamide fiber, and is covered with a topping rubber. By providing the cap ply 27, it is possible to improve durability and reduce road noise during driving. In this embodiment, the outer end 27A of the cap ply 27 in the tire width direction extends outward in the tire width direction beyond the outer end 26A of the steel belt 26 in the tire width direction.

[0038] The tread rubber 28 is a member that constitutes the tread surface (the surface in contact with the road surface) 13C. The tread rubber 28 has an outer end 28A in the tire width direction. The tread surface 13C of the tread rubber 28 is provided with a tread pattern (not shown) that is composed of a plurality of grooves.

[0039] An inner liner 29 serving as a rubber layer constituting the inner wall surface of the tire 1 is provided on the tire cavity side of the carcass ply 23 in the beads 11, sidewalls 12, and tread 13. The inner liner 29 is made of air-permeable resistant rubber and prevents air in the tire cavity from leaking to the outside.

[0040] 1, the sidewall rubber 30 of the sidewall 12 extends toward the tread 13. On the other hand, the tread rubber 28 of the tread 13 extends toward the sidewall 12. As a result, the tread rubber 28 and the sidewall rubber 30 are laminated on the tire outer surface side of a portion of the carcass ply 23. More specifically, in a region where the sidewall rubber 30 and the tread rubber 28 both exist, i.e., in a transition region between the sidewall 12 and the tread 13, the sidewall rubber 30 and the tread rubber 28 are laminated in order on the tire outer surface side of the carcass ply 23.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a rim strip rubber 32 and a sidewall rubber 30 arranged radially outward of the rim strip rubber 32 are arranged on the tire widthwise outer side of the carcass ply 23 in the bead 11 and the sidewall 12.

[0042] Also, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, near the transition region between the bead 11 and the sidewall 12, the rim strip rubber 32 and the sidewall rubber 30 are laminated in order on the tire outer surface side of the carcass ply 23.

[0043] 1 and 2, the first end 31A of the chafer 31 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the ply body 24 of the carcass ply 23 and the inner liner 29. The second end 31B of the chafer 31 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the ply turn-up portion 25 of the carcass ply 23 and the rim strip rubber 32.

[0044] In the tire 1 of this embodiment, an RFID tag 40 is embedded as an electronic component unit. The RFID tag 40 is a passive transponder equipped with an RFID chip and an antenna for communicating with an external device, and performs wireless communication with a reader (not shown) as the external device. As the antenna, various types of antennas such as a coil-shaped spring antenna, a plate-shaped antenna, and a rod-shaped antenna are used. For example, the antenna may be formed by printing a predetermined pattern on a flexible substrate. The antenna is set to an optimized antenna length according to the frequency band to be used, etc. Identification information such as a manufacturing number and a part number is stored in a memory unit in the RFID chip.

[0045] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the RFID tag 40 is disposed in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50. With this configuration, the movement of the RFID tag 40 is restricted by the reinforcing resin layer, so that the RFID tag 40 is less susceptible to the effects of tire distortion during running. Therefore, the durability of the RFID tag 40 can be improved without using additional parts. In addition, according to this embodiment, impact protection is also improved. That is, even if the tire receives an impact from the outside, the RFID tag 40 is protected because the ply fold-back portion 25 of the carcass ply 23 as a fiber layer is present between the outer wall surface of the tire 1 and the RFID tag 40.

[0046] Moreover, by configuring the reinforcing layer of this portion not with a reinforcing layer having a metal cord but with the reinforcing resin layer 50, it is possible to suppress deterioration in the performance of the RFID tag 40, such as deterioration in communication quality, which may occur due to the presence of a metal member nearby. Also, it is possible to realize a lightweight structure for reinforcing the bead.

[0047] In this embodiment, specifically, the RFID tag 40 is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. The RFID tag 40 is also in contact with the ply folded-up portion 25. Since the RFID tag 40 is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25, which is a fiber layer, the periphery of the RFID tag 40 is less deformed and stress is less likely to concentrate. Therefore, the RFID tag 40 is less likely to be damaged. In this embodiment, the rubber member constituting the tire outer surface disposed on the outer side of the RFID tag 40 in the tire width direction is the sidewall rubber 30.

[0048] At least a part of the RFID tag 40 is preferably disposed radially outward in the tire than a position 5 mm outward in the tire radial direction from the tire radial outer end 21A of the bead core 21. More preferably, the entire part of the RFID tag 40 including the antenna is disposed radially outward in the tire than a position 5 mm outward in the tire radial direction from the tire radial outer end 21A of the bead core 21. That is, the RFID tag 40 of this embodiment is preferably disposed radially outward in the tire than a range L1 indicating a range from the tire radial outer end 21A of the bead core 21 to a position 5 mm outward in the tire radial direction, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0049] 3 shows the results of investigating the relationship between the communication distance and the distance between the tire radial outer end 21A of the bead core 21 and the RFID tag 40. The communication distance on the vertical axis is an index of the communication distance, with the longest communication distance being 100. This value should be 40 or more, preferably 60 or more, and more preferably 80 or more.

[0050] The bead core 21 is formed into a ring shape by laminating and winding a metal bead wire, and is therefore a metal member that is particularly likely to adversely affect communication. From Fig. 3, it can be seen that a preferable communication distance can be obtained by arranging the RFID tag 40 5 mm or more away from the tire radial outer end 21A of the bead core 21. It can also be seen that a more preferable communication distance can be obtained by arranging the RFID tag 40 10 mm or more away from the tire radial outer end 21A of the bead core 21.

[0051] Here, a manufacturing method of the tire 1 of this embodiment will be described. In the manufacturing process of the tire 1, the RFID tag 40 is attached to a tire constituent member before a vulcanization process.

[0052] First, a case where the resin component of the resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 is a thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic elastomer will be described.

[0053] In this case, the reinforcing resin layer 50 is formed in advance into a sheet shape using various molding techniques such as extrusion molding and press molding.

[0054] The RFID tag 40 is attached to the reinforcing resin layer 50 or the ply folded-up portion 25, which has been formed in advance into a sheet shape. At this time, since the reinforcing resin layer 50 or the ply folded-up portion 25 has rigidity, the work of attaching the RFID tag 40 is easy. Thereafter, the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. In addition, the rubber members that constitute the tire before vulcanization are also assembled to form a raw tire. Thereafter, the raw tire with the RFID tag 40 embedded therein is vulcanized in a vulcanization process. Through these processes, a tire 1 in which the RFID tag 40 and the reinforcing resin layer 50 are in contact with each other is manufactured.

[0055] The manufacturing method of the tire 1 may include a step of forming the reinforcing resin layer 50 containing a thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic elastomer as a component into a sheet shape in advance, a step of arranging the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit so as to be in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 formed into a sheet shape in advance, a step of forming a raw tire including the reinforcing resin layer 50, the RFID tag 40 arranged in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50, and a rubber member before vulcanization, and a step of vulcanizing the raw tire. In this way, the tire 1 of the present embodiment can be manufactured.

[0056] Next, a case where the resin component of the resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 is a thermosetting resin will be described.

[0057] In this case, for example, a gel-like thermosetting resin before hardening is applied to the outer surface of the bead filler 22 in the tire width direction.

[0058] Then, the RFID tag 40 is placed on the surface of the applied thermosetting resin before curing. At this time, if the thermosetting resin before curing has adhesiveness, the RFID tag 40 can be easily attached. Then, the ply folded-up portion 25 is attached to the bead filler 22 via the thermoplastic resin before curing. As a result, the RFID tag 40 is placed between the thermosetting resin before curing that becomes the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. In addition to this, rubber members that constitute the tire before vulcanization are also assembled to form a raw tire. Then, the raw tire with the RFID tag 40 embedded therein is vulcanized in a vulcanization process. During this vulcanization process, the thermosetting resin in the raw tire is cured at the same time and becomes a thermosetting resin after heat curing. Through such a process, the tire 1 in which the RFID tag 40 and the reinforcing resin layer 50 are in contact with each other is manufactured.

[0059] When the resin component of the resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 is a thermosetting resin, the following manufacturing process may be adopted.

[0060] First, the RFID tag 40 is attached to the surface of the ply turn-up portion 25 on the inner side in the tire width direction. Then, pre-cured thermosetting resin is applied to the inner side in the tire width direction of the ply turn-up portion 25 so as to cover the RFID tag 40. Then, the ply turn-up portion 25 on which the pre-cured thermosetting resin is applied is attached to the bead filler 22. As a result, the RFID tag 40 is disposed between the pre-cured thermosetting resin that becomes the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply turn-up portion 25. In addition to this, rubber members that constitute the tire before vulcanization are also assembled to form a raw tire. Then, the raw tire in which the RFID tag 40 is embedded is vulcanized in a vulcanization process. During this vulcanization process, the thermosetting resin in the raw tire is cured at the same time and becomes a thermosetting resin after heat curing. Through such a process, the tire 1 in which the RFID tag 40 and the reinforcing resin layer 50 are in contact with each other is manufactured.

[0061] The manufacturing method of tire 1 includes a step of applying uncured thermoplastic resin to tire constituent members, a step of arranging an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit so as to be in contact with the uncured thermoplastic resin, a step of forming a raw tire including the uncured thermoplastic resin, the RFID tag 40 arranged in contact with the uncured thermoplastic resin, and an unvulcanized rubber member, and a step of vulcanizing the raw tire, and in the step of vulcanizing the raw tire, the thermoplastic resin in the raw tire may be heated and cured to form a reinforcing resin layer 50. In this way, tire 1 of the present embodiment can be manufactured.

[0062] The manufacturing method of tire 1 includes a step of arranging RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit on a tire constituent member, a step of applying uncured thermoplastic resin to the tire constituent member so as to cover the RFID tag 40, a step of forming a raw tire including uncured thermoplastic resin, the RFID tag 40 arranged in contact with the uncured thermoplastic resin, and an unvulcanized rubber member, and a step of vulcanizing the raw tire, and in the step of vulcanizing the raw tire, the thermoplastic resin in the raw tire may be heated and cured to form the reinforcing resin layer 50. In this manner, tire 1 of the present embodiment can be manufactured.

[0063] Incidentally, the RFID tag 40 embedded in the tire often has a longitudinal direction including the antenna, as shown in the RFID tag 40 in Figures 8A and 8B described later. Such an RFID tag 40 is preferably embedded in the tire 1 so that its longitudinal direction is the circumferential direction of the tire or a direction tangential to the circumferential direction of the tire, that is, a direction perpendicular to the paper surface in the cross-sectional views of Figures 1 and 2. By embedding the RFID tag 40 in this manner, stress is less likely to be applied to the RFID tag 40 even when the tire is deformed.

[0064] In this embodiment, the RFID tag 40 is embedded in the tire as the electronic component unit, but the electronic component unit embedded in the tire is not limited to the RFID tag. For example, it may be various electronic component units such as a sensor that performs wireless communication. Furthermore, when the electronic components constituting the electronic component unit come into electrical contact with a conductive member, the performance of the electronic components may change, making it difficult to maintain the characteristics of the electronic components. Furthermore, the electronic components may be damaged by excessive stress. Therefore, the effect of the present invention can be obtained even when various electronic component units are embedded in the tire. For example, the electronic component unit may be a piezoelectric element or a strain sensor.

[0065] FIG. 4A is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a first modified example of the present embodiment.

[0066] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is also disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. The RFID tag 40 is in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. However, compared with the embodiment of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the RFID tag 40 is disposed closer to the inner side in the tire radial direction. Even in this case, the same effect as the above-mentioned embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, in this modification, in addition to the ply folded-up portion 25, the rim strip rubber 32 having a higher modulus than the sidewall rubber 30 and the sidewall rubber 30 are laminated in this order on the outer side of the RFID tag 40 in the tire width direction. Therefore, when an external force is applied from the outer side in the tire radial direction, the RFID tag 40 is more reliably protected.

[0067] FIG. 4B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a second modified example of the present embodiment.

[0068] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is also disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. The RFID tag 40 is in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. However, compared to the first modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed further toward the inner side in the tire radial direction. Even in this case, the same effect as the above-mentioned embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, in this modification, in addition to the ply folded-up portion 25, the chafer 31 and the rim strip rubber 32 are laminated in order and disposed on the outer side of the RFID tag 40 in the tire width direction. Therefore, when an external force is applied from the outer side in the tire radial direction, the RFID tag 40 is protected more reliably.

[0069] FIG. 5A is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a third modified example of the present embodiment.

[0070] In this modified example, the RFID tag 40 is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. The RFID tag 40 is in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22.

[0071] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50, and therefore the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0072] In addition, in this modification, the RFID tag 40 is provided between the high modulus bead filler 22 and the reinforcing resin layer 50, so that the periphery of the RFID tag 40 is less deformed and stress is less likely to concentrate thereon. Therefore, the RFID tag 40 is less likely to be damaged. And, the ply folded-up portion 25 as a fiber layer and the reinforcing resin layer 50 are present between the outer wall surface of the tire 1 and the RFID tag 40, so that the RFID tag 40 is protected.

[0073] FIG. 5B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a fourth modified example of the present embodiment.

[0074] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is also disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. The RFID tag 40 is in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. However, compared to the third modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed closer to the inner side in the tire radial direction. Even in this case, the same effect as the third modification can be obtained. Furthermore, in this modification, in addition to the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25, the rim strip rubber 32 having a higher modulus than the sidewall rubber 30 and the sidewall rubber 30 are laminated in order and disposed on the outer side of the RFID tag 40 in the tire width direction. Therefore, when an external force is applied from the outer side in the tire radial direction, the RFID tag 40 is more reliably protected.

[0075] FIG. 5C is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a fifth modified example of the present embodiment.

[0076] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is also disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. The RFID tag 40 is in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. However, compared to the fourth modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed further toward the inner side in the tire radial direction. Even in this case, the same effect as the third modification can be obtained. Furthermore, in this modification, in addition to the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25, the chafer 31 and the rim strip rubber 32 are laminated in order on the outer side of the RFID tag 40 in the tire width direction. Therefore, when an external force is applied from the outer side in the tire radial direction, the RFID tag 40 is protected more reliably.

[0077] FIG. 6A is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a sixth modified example of the present embodiment.

[0078] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is embedded in the reinforcing resin layer 50 .

[0079] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50, and therefore the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0080] In addition, in this modification, since the RFID tag 40 is embedded in the reinforcing resin layer 50, the periphery of the RFID tag 40 is less deformed and stress is less likely to concentrate thereon. Therefore, the RFID tag 40 is less likely to be damaged.

[0081] In addition, when the resin component of the resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 is a thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic elastomer, when the reinforcing resin layer 50 is formed in advance into a sheet shape, the RFID tag 40 may be embedded in this sheet-shaped reinforcing resin layer 50. For example, the RFID tag 40 may be sandwiched between two sheet-shaped members to form the reinforcing resin layer 50 in which the RFID tag 40 is embedded.

[0082] In addition, when the resin component of the resin material constituting the reinforcing resin layer 50 is a thermosetting resin, the RFID tag 40 may be placed when applying, for example, uncured thermosetting resin to the bead filler 22 or the ply fold back portion 25, and the RFID tag 40 may be embedded in the reinforcing resin layer 50.

[0083] The manufacturing method of tire 1 may include a step of embedding an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit in a sheet-like reinforcing resin layer 50 containing a thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic elastomer as a component, a step of forming a raw tire including the sheet-like reinforcing resin layer 50 in which the RFID tag 40 is embedded and a rubber member before vulcanization, and a step of vulcanizing the raw tire.

[0084] In addition, the manufacturing method of tire 1 includes a step of arranging the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit so as to be in contact with the uncured thermoplastic resin when applying the uncured thermoplastic resin to a tire constituent member, a step of forming a raw tire including the uncured thermoplastic resin, the RFID tag 40 arranged in contact with the uncured thermoplastic resin, and an unvulcanized rubber member, and a step of vulcanizing the raw tire, and in the step of vulcanizing the raw tire, the thermoplastic resin in the raw tire may be heated and cured to form the reinforcing resin layer 50.

[0085] FIG. 6B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in a seventh modified example of the present embodiment.

[0086] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is also embedded in the reinforcing resin layer 50. However, compared to the sixth modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed closer to the inner side in the tire radial direction. Even in this case, the same effect as the sixth modification can be obtained. Furthermore, in this modification, in addition to the ply folded-up portion 25, the rim strip rubber 32 having a higher modulus than the sidewall rubber 30 and the sidewall rubber 30 are laminated in this order on the outer side of the RFID tag 40 in the tire width direction. Therefore, when an external force is applied from the outer side in the tire radial direction, the RFID tag 40 is more reliably protected.

[0087] FIG. 6C is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of tire 1 in an eighth modified example of the present embodiment.

[0088] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is also embedded in the reinforcing resin layer 50. However, compared to the seventh modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed further inward in the tire radial direction. Even in this case, the same effect as in the sixth modification can be obtained. Furthermore, in this modification, in addition to the ply folded-up portion 25, the chafer 31 and the rim strip rubber 32 are laminated in this order on the tire width direction outer side of the RFID tag 40. Therefore, when an external force is applied from the tire radial direction outer side, the RFID tag 40 is protected more reliably.

[0089] FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a half cross-section in the tire width direction of a tire 1 according to a ninth modified example of the present embodiment.

[0090] In this modification, the reinforcing resin layer 50 is provided between the ply body 24 and the bead filler 22. The RFID tag 40 is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply body 24.

[0091] In this modified example, at least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the bead core 21. At least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the bead filler 22. At least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the carcass ply 23. More specifically, at least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the ply main body 24. At least a portion of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is in contact with the ply folded-up portion 25. The RFID tag 40 is in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply main body 24.

[0092] In this modification, the RFID tag 40 is disposed in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50, and therefore the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0093] In addition, in this modification, since the RFID tag 40 is provided between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply body 24 which is a fiber layer, the periphery of the RFID tag 40 is less deformed and stress is less likely to concentrate thereon. Therefore, the RFID tag 40 is less likely to be damaged. Furthermore, since the ply fold-back portion 25 of the carcass ply 23 as a fiber layer, the bead filler 22, and the reinforcing resin layer 50 are present between the outer wall surface of the tire 1 and the RFID tag 40, the RFID tag 40 is protected.

[0094] The arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in the tire radial direction is not limited to the position in Fig. 7. The arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in the tire radial direction may be a tire radial position corresponding to the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in Fig. 2, may be a tire radial position corresponding to the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in Fig. 4A, or may be a tire radial position corresponding to the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in Fig. 4B. In addition to the effect of this embodiment, effects similar to those of the first modified example or the second modified example can be obtained depending on the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in the tire radial direction.

[0095] In addition, when the reinforcing resin layer 50 is provided between the ply body 24 and the bead filler 22, the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 is not limited to between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply body 24. For example, the RFID tag 40 may be arranged between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. In this case, depending on the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in the tire radial direction, effects similar to those of the third to fifth modified examples can be obtained. Furthermore, the RFID tag 40 may be embedded in the reinforcing resin layer 50. In this case, depending on the arrangement position of the RFID tag 40 in the tire radial direction, effects similar to those of the sixth to eighth modified examples can be obtained.

[0096] The tire 1 of the present embodiment provides the following advantages.

[0097] (1) The tire 1 according to the present embodiment includes a pair of beads 11 each having a bead core 21 and a bead filler 22 extending outward in the tire radial direction from the bead core 21, a reinforcing resin layer 50 provided along the bead filler 22, and an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit arranged in contact with the reinforcing resin layer 50. By providing the reinforcing resin layer 50 in this manner, the rigidity of the tire 1 can be increased without providing an additional metal cord layer. In addition, by forming the reinforcing layer from a resin material, the weight of the structure reinforcing the bead can be reduced. Furthermore, since there is no need to provide an additional metal cord layer, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the characteristics of the electronic component unit due to the influence of metal parts. For example, the deterioration of the communication quality of the RFID tag 40 is suppressed.

[0098] (2) The tire 1 according to this embodiment further includes a carcass ply 23 including a ply body 24 extending from one bead 11 to the other bead 11 and a ply fold-up portion 25 folded up at the bead 11, and the reinforcing resin layer 50 is provided between the carcass ply 23 and the bead filler 22. Even with this configuration, it is possible to increase the rigidity of the tire 1 while suppressing deterioration in the characteristics of the RFID tag 40 disposed in the tire 1.

[0099] (3) In the tire 1 according to the present embodiment, the reinforcing resin layer 50 is provided between the ply folded-up portion 25 and the bead filler 22, and the RFID tag 40 serving as an electronic component unit is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25. In this manner, the RFID tag 40 is provided between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply folded-up portion 25, which is a fiber layer, so that the RFID tag 40 is appropriately protected.

[0100] (4) In the tire 1 according to the present embodiment, the reinforcing resin layer 50 is provided between the ply body 24 and the bead filler 22, and the RFID tag 40 serving as an electronic component unit is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply body 24. In this manner, the RFID tag 40 is provided between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the ply body 24, which is a fiber layer, so that the RFID tag 40 is appropriately protected.

[0101] (5) The RFID tag 40 serving as an electronic component unit of the tire 1 according to the present embodiment is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer 50 and the bead filler 22. By disposing the RFID tag 40 between the high-modulus bead filler 22 and the reinforcing resin layer 50 in this manner, the RFID tag 40 is appropriately protected.

[0102] (6) The RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit of the tire 1 according to the present embodiment is embedded in the reinforcing resin layer. By embedding the RFID tag 40 in the reinforcing resin layer 50 in this manner, the RFID tag 40 is appropriately protected.

[0103] (7) In the tire 1 according to this embodiment, the tire radial outer end 50A of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is located within a range of ±20 mm in the tire radial direction based on the tire radial outer end 22A of the bead filler 22. This can increase the rigidity of the tire 1 around the bead portion.

[0104] (8) In the tire 1 according to the present embodiment, the tire radially outer end 50A of the reinforcing resin layer 50 is located radially outward of the tire radially outer end 22A of the bead filler 22. This can increase the rigidity of the tire 1, including the sidewall 12 region.

[0105] (9) At least a portion of the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component unit of the tire 1 according to the present embodiment is disposed radially outward of a position 5 mm outward from the radially outer end of the bead core. This makes it possible to suppress the influence of the bead core 21 on the RFID tag 40, and ensures favorable communication between the RFID tag 40 and the outside.

[0106] <Second embodiment> Next, a tire 1 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8A to 8C. In the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. The electronic component unit of this embodiment is composed of an RFID tag 40 and a protective member 43 made of a rubber sheet that covers the RFID tag 40.

[0107] Fig. 8A is a diagram showing an RFID tag 40 covered with a protective member 43 made of a rubber sheet. In Fig. 8A, the RFID tag 40 is covered and hidden by a rubber sheet 431 described later. Fig. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line bb in Fig. 8A, and Fig. 8C is a cross-sectional view taken along line cc in Fig. 8A. In this embodiment, the RFID tag 40 is covered with a protective member 43 as shown in Figs. 8A to 8C.

[0108] The RFID tag 40 includes an RFID chip 41 and an antenna 42 for communicating with an external device. As described above, the antenna 42 may be a coil spring antenna, a plate antenna, or a rod-shaped antenna. For example, the antenna may be an antenna formed by printing a predetermined pattern on a flexible substrate. In consideration of communication properties and flexibility, a coil spring antenna is most preferable.

[0109] The protective member 43 is composed of two rubber sheets 431 and 432 that sandwich the RFID tag 40 to protect it.

[0110] The protective member 43 is made of, for example, rubber having a predetermined modulus. Here, the modulus refers to the 100% elongation modulus (M100) measured in accordance with "3.7 Stress at a given elongation, S" of JIS K6251:2010 at an atmosphere of 23°C.

[0111] The rubber used for the protective member 43 has a modulus at least higher than that of the sidewall rubber 30 .

[0112] For example, it is more preferable that the rubber used for the protective member 43 has a modulus that is 1.1 to 2 times that of the sidewall rubber 30 as a reference.

[0113] The protective member 43 may also be made of a rubber mixed with a short fiber filler. As the short fiber filler, for example, an insulating short fiber such as an organic short fiber such as an aramid short fiber or a cellulose short fiber, or an inorganic short fiber such as a ceramic short fiber such as an alumina short fiber or a glass short fiber can be used. By mixing such a short fiber filler into the rubber, the strength of the rubber can be increased. Also, a rubber sheet in a vulcanized state may be used as the protective member 43. A rubber sheet in a vulcanized state does not plastically deform like raw rubber, and therefore can adequately protect the RFID tag 40.

[0114] Moreover, an organic fiber layer made of polyester fiber, polyamide fiber, or the like may be provided as the protective member 43. It is also possible to embed an organic fiber layer between the two rubber sheets 431 and 432.

[0115] In this way, if the protective member 43 is formed by two rubber sheets 431, 432, the RFID tag 40 including the protective member 43 can be formed thin, which is suitable for embedding in the tire 1. Furthermore, when the RFID tag 40 is assembled to a component of the tire 1 before vulcanization, the RFID tag 40 covered by the rubber sheets 431, 432 can be attached very easily. For example, the RFID tag 40 covered by the rubber sheets 431, 432 can be appropriately attached to a desired position of a tire component having rubber before vulcanization by utilizing the adhesiveness of raw rubber. Furthermore, by using the rubber sheets 431, 432 as raw rubber before vulcanization, the RFID tag 40 can be attached more easily by utilizing the adhesiveness of the rubber sheets 431, 432 themselves.

[0116] However, the protective member 43 is not limited to being composed of two rubber sheets 431, 432, and various other configurations can be adopted. For example, as long as the rubber sheet constituting the protective member covers at least a part of the RFID tag 40, the effects of improving workability in the manufacturing process and relieving stress can be obtained. In addition, for example, a configuration in which one rubber sheet is wrapped around the entire circumference of the RFID tag 40, or a configuration in which a protective member in the form of a highly viscous potting agent is attached around the entire circumference of the RFID tag 40 may be used. Even with such a configuration, the RFID tag 40 can be appropriately protected.

[0117] The RFID tag 40 covered with the protective member 43 is embedded in the tire 1 so that its longitudinal direction is the circumferential direction of the tire 1 or a direction tangential to the circumferential direction of the tire 1, that is, a direction perpendicular to the paper in the cross-sectional views of Figures 1 to 2, 4A to 6C, and 7. In the manufacturing process, one surface of either of the rubber sheets 431 and 432 may be attached to a component member of the tire 1 before vulcanization.

[0118] By adopting such an embodiment, even when the tire 1 is deformed, stress is unlikely to be applied to the RFID tag 40. Furthermore, the task of attaching the RFID tag 40 covered with the protective member 43 in the manufacturing process is simplified.

[0119] In addition to the above advantages (1) to (9), the tire 1 according to this embodiment has the following advantages.

[0120] (10) In this embodiment, the RFID tag 40 is covered with rubber sheets 431 and 432. This improves workability in the manufacturing process. In addition, the effect of reducing stress on the RFID tag 40 can be obtained.

[0121] The tire of the present invention can be used as various tires for passenger cars, light trucks, trucks, buses, etc., but is particularly suitable as a tire for passenger cars. The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and even if modifications and improvements are made within the scope of the present invention, they will still be included in the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 1 Tire 11 Bead 12 Sidewall 13 Tread 21 Bead core 22 Bead filler 22A Tire radial outer end 23 Carcass ply 24 ply body 25 Ply turn-up part 26 Steel Belt 27 Cap Ply 28 Tread rubber 29 Inner Liner 30 Sidewall rubber 31 Chaeha 32 Rim strip rubber 40 RFID tag (electronic component unit) 42 Antenna 43 Protective materials 50 Reinforcing resin layer 50A Tire radial outer end

Claims

1. A pair of beads each having a bead core and a bead filler extending outward in a radial direction of the tire from the bead core; a reinforcing resin layer provided along the bead filler; and an electronic component unit disposed in contact with the reinforcing resin layer.

2. The tire further includes a carcass ply having a ply body extending from one bead to the other bead and a ply turn-up portion turned up at the bead, The tire according to claim 1 , wherein the reinforcing resin layer is provided between the carcass ply and the bead filler.

3. The reinforcing resin layer is provided between the ply turn-up portion and the bead filler, The tire according to claim 2 , wherein the electronic component unit is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer and the ply turn-up portion.

4. The reinforcing resin layer is provided between the ply body and the bead filler, The tire according to claim 2 , wherein the electronic component unit is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer and the ply body.

5. The tire according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electronic component unit is disposed between the reinforcing resin layer and the bead filler.

6. The tire according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electronic component unit is embedded in the reinforcing resin layer.

7. The tire according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a radially outer end of the reinforcing resin layer is located within a range of ±20 mm in the radial direction of the tire with respect to a radially outer end of the bead filler.

8. The tire according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein an outer end in the tire radial direction of the reinforcing resin layer is located outer in the tire radial direction than an outer end in the tire radial direction of the bead filler.

9. The tire according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least a portion of the electronic component unit is disposed radially outward in the tire direction from a position 5 mm radially outward from an outer end of the bead core in the tire radial direction.

Images